Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon Monoxide is a natural byproduct of the burning of most fuels: Wood, natural gas, kerosene, propane, etc. Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning can happen very quickly. Because carbon monioxide is odourless and colourless, it is impossible to detect. While carbon monoxide is a normal byproduct of fuel combustion, an improperly functioning stove or furnace can emit hazardous levels of carbon monoxide into the air in your dwelling. Dizziness and headaches are early warning signs of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Precautionary Measures

• At the start of every heating season, you should have all burning appliances checked by a qualified technician.
• Install a carbon monoxide detector on each level of the home.

Health Risks

Low levels of carbon monoxide poisoning can be confused with other illness symptoms and can often go undetected. Carbon monoxide poisoning can result in long term health problems if not treated promptly. Symptoms such as nausea, headaches and light-headedness should be checked by a physician.

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Low levels of carbon monoxide poisoning can be confused with flu symptoms, food poisoning or other illnesses and can have long term health effects.

Some of symptoms are:

• Shortness of breath
• Mild nausea
• Mild headaches
• High levels of CO can be fatal